Joshua Gibson

nonpartisan

I want to improve our green spaces, create safe bike lanes and crosswalks that connect our neighborhoods to parks, schools, and local business hubs. High-quality parks and recreation facilities attract people from other cities, which could create more traffic for small businesses in the area.

At the same time, we need to recognize that continued corporate expansion, especially large warehouse and industrial facilities, undermines these efforts.

More heavy trucks on the roads will create further damage when repairing our failing infrastructure is already one of residents' top priorities. Beyond the damage that these trucks will do, they also create additional noise and air pollution that puts the health of nearby families and entire communities at risk.

Other cities in the metroplex have shown that it’s possible to address long-neglected infrastructure, invest in essential services, and continue to be an attractive location for business, all without raising taxes on residents. I plan to work directly with the leaders of these cities who have been successful in achieving similar goals and bring those proven strategies to Mesquite.

To combat the need for industrial and commercial growth, I believe we should reinvest in our existing residential areas, many of which have buildings with vacant locations that small businesses could occupy.